Carports are treated as accessory structures in St. Louis and must comply with setback, size, and design review rules. Permits are required for any carport regardless of size.
St. Louis Building Division requires a permit for all carport installations. Structures must meet: rear or side yard placement (front yard carports generally prohibited in most residential zones), minimum 3 ft side setback, anchored foundation (metal prefab carports must be engineered for wind loads), maximum 15 ft height, and consistent architectural character in historic districts. Cultural Resources Office review for properties in any Local Historic District almost universally disfavors freestanding metal prefab carports and requires compatible materials (wood posts, shingle roof, appropriate proportions). Attached carports extending the roofline of the main house may be approved where a freestanding carport would not be. Carports that enclose on three or more sides are classified as garages and follow garage zoning rules. Carports cannot be used for habitation or storage of inoperative vehicles.
Unpermitted carport: $100-$500 and order to permit or remove. Prefab metal carports in historic districts routinely cited and ordered removed.
St. Louis, MO
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